Thomas of Torquemada

Thomas of Torquemada was born into a family of conversos (converted Jews) in the town of Torquemada, Castile.

At the age of 10, Thomas enters the Dominican Order and begins his religious education at the Monastery of Santa Cruz in Segovia.

Thomas is ordained as a priest and begins his career within the Dominican Order, focusing on preaching and teaching.

Thomas becomes the prior of the Dominican priory of Santo Tomás in Ávila, a position that enhances his influence and reputation.

Thomas begins advocating for the establishment of the Spanish Inquisition to combat heresy and ensure the purity of the Catholic faith.

Thomas serves as an advisor to King Henry IV of Castile, influencing royal policies on religious matters and the treatment of conversos.

Thomas is appointed Grand Inquisitor of Spain by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, marking the beginning of his most significant and controversial role.

The Spanish Inquisition is officially established by Pope Sixtus IV, with Thomas of Torquemada as its first Grand Inquisitor, overseeing the persecution of heretics.

The first auto-da-fé (act of faith) is held in Seville, marking the beginning of public executions and punishments of heretics under the Inquisition.

Thomas expands the reach of the Inquisition, setting up tribunals in major cities and ensuring the Inquisition's influence throughout the Spanish territories.

The persecution of conversos (converted Jews) intensifies, with many being subjected to trials, torture, and execution for alleged heresy and apostasy.

Thomas faces increasing criticism and opposition from within the Church and the royal court for the harshness of the Inquisition's methods.

Under Thomas's influence, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella issue the Alhambra Decree, expelling all Jews from Spain and seizing their property.

Thomas resigns as Grand Inquisitor due to ill health and the mounting pressure from critics, though he continues to advise the Inquisition.

Thomas of Torquemada dies in Ávila, leaving a controversial legacy marked by the establishment and brutal enforcement of the Spanish Inquisition.